Online safety for children and youth

What are the risks of interacting online?

cyberbullying and harassment

physical harm: The Internet, including email, social media sites, chat areas, bulletin boards and messaging can be used to gain a person’s confidence, particularly that of a child, and then arrange a face-to-face meeting. This contact may result in physical, sexual and emotional harm.

exposure to inappropriate material, such as materials that are sexual, hateful or violent in nature or encourage activities that are dangerous or illegal

identity theft

fraud

Tips for parents and guardians to reduce online risks to children:

learn about the online world and be aware of what your child is doing and/or looking at online

ensure your child does not give out personal information online. Have them use a code name.

move the computer out of the bedroom and into the family room or living room to allow better monitoring and access to the computer

talk about online safety with your child

ask your child about people they may have met through social media tools such as Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter

monitor the amount of time your child spends online

find out about filtering software that is available to block out certain sites and material. If you are concerned about your child visiting a certain site or chat room, a block can be placed to prevent your child from logging on to that site. However, don't feel completely safe with a block. New websites pop up every day and many pornographic or hate-filled sites have simple names that don't give away their content, and some websites are even named to attract children and young adults.

General tips for reducing online risks

use a code name and keep personal information, such as your address, telephone number, place of work, or the name or location of your school, private

always talk to your parents before ever agreeing to meet someone you met online, they may not be who they say they are

if a message or chat room becomes uncomfortable, do not respond and log out of that site

report harassment or inappropriate messages to your online server, who have their own set of ethical standards and welcome information from users